Updated Permits for 770 Woolsey Street in Portola, San Francisco

Aug 20, 2023

By: Andrew Nelson 5:00 am on August 4, 2023

Group I has submitted a second request for Conditional Use authorization to build housing at 770 Woolsey Street in Portola, San Francisco. The plan has been contentious as it will demolish most of the former University Mound Nursery, though a sizable portion of the site will be retained for permanent community use. Iwamotoscott Architecture is responsible for the design.

770 Woolsey Street corner building view, rendering by Iwamotoscott Architects

770 Woolsey Street existing greenhouses, image courtesy Iwamotoscott Architects

The initial Conditional Use Authorization permits were approved last year. In the new CUA request, Group I has requested that instead of creating on-site affordable housing, they pay an in-lieu development fee. Initial plans would have made 13 affordable units for ownership. The plan creates 31 duplex units across the 2.2-acre site. Of the 62 for-ownership residences, there will be 28 two-bedrooms and 34 three-bedrooms. Parking will be included for 62 cars and 105 bicycles.

The buildings, designed by Iwamotoscott Architecture, will have alternating angled roofs to mimic the gabled roof style of the greenhouse nurseries. The facades will be clad with plaster or fiber cement siding and wood slats in varying colors from black, grey, and white. The unpainted wood slats visible in each rendering will create a cohesive tone across the development.

770 Woolsey Street, landscaping map by Fletcher Studio

The landscaping across the site will play a significant social role for residents. Designed by Fletcher Studio, the parcel will be connected by a private and public network of green pathways between the row houses. Crossing the center of the lot running north-south, the public pathway, serving as a pedestrian mew, will offer amenities like a flower garden, play space, and bicycle repair stand. At the corner of Woolsey and Hamilton, the preserved nursery greenhouse will shelter the community gardens.

770 Woolsey Street green walkway, rendering by Iwamotoscott Architects

770 Woolsey Street, image via Google Satellite

Construction is expected to cost around $60 million. Group I has yet to reply to an inquiry about the groundbreaking timeline.

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